AMA releases cultural guide

The American Medical Association (AMA) of Chicago has produced a book designed to help physicians understand their patients’ complex cultural backgrounds. The Cultural Competence Compendium was created in response to dramatic changes in the nation’s demographics, and includes resources available from organizations that focus on cultural competence, including information about spiritual practices and self-help resources.

The 460-page book can be purchased by calling the AMA at (800) 621-8335. It may be downloaded from the AMA Web site free at http://www. ama-assn.org/ethic/diversity/contents.htm.